Two men are looking to give back to local schools through a new Community Educational Reinvestment Program.

Brian Allen and Michael Astley developed the A-Squared Theater and Action Hall in Orleans Township, which is an indoor auction and special event venue on North State Road. Weekly auctions take place at 1 p.m. each Saturday and a flea market is hosted from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays and from noon to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Though only four auctions have taken place since the pair began their endeavor, they said they have a desire to give back to the local school districts as budgets get tighter every year.

“We have a lot of friends and connections to the schools. That’s why it’s important to us,” said Astley.

Both men also have worked with children with special needs and said they want to help the children in any way possible.

“We’re just trying to make a difference,” said Allen, who spent many years attending school in the Montcalm County area.

Of every item auctioned off, 30 percent is kept by Allen and Astley. Of the 30 percent, 3 percent is given to a school or district of the buyer’s choice. The more items that are purchased, the more money goes to one particular beneficiary.

Attempts at spreading the word to local district administration have been less than successful, but the weekly auctions are slowly gaining steam. Parents and supporters of Palo Community Schools have already taken advantage of the opportunity, Astley added.

Both men also have foundations in auctions - with Allen knowing the business side while Astley has knowledge in the pieces up for bidding. The items the pair take in include home goods, stemware, collectibles, racing and beer memorabilia, artwork, vehicles and furniture. They also work with a gold, silver and gem broker and sell pieces online.

“We have the background to get it to take off, but we need more consignments. Even if people don’t like auctions, a great way to benefit the schools is to consign,” he added.

Safe Haven Human Society also benefits from the generosity of the pair, who love animals and want to help those who help dogs and cats in need of a permanent home.

Allen said the organization is special to him because animals helped him get through a hard childhood. By giving to Safe Haven, he can help others receive an animal that can get them through their tough moments.

For the future, Astley and Allen said they hope to grow the business and flea market and create a venue for special events including pet adoption days, car shows and school fundraisers.

Page 2 of 2 - “We are very much set up for and would love to do benefits,” Astley added.

For more information, contact info@a2consignment.com or call 517-881-6818. For listings, visit www.auctionzip.com and use the identification number 33377. A-Squared Theater and Action Hall is located at 7500 N. State Road.